Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Orchestral

 

Garry Kvistad is a renowned percussionist, composer, and instrument maker who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on August 28, 1950, in Warwick, New York, Kvistad grew up in a musical family and started playing the drums at a young age. He attended the State University of New York at Albany, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in music. Kvistad's interest in percussion led him to explore various musical traditions from around the world. He traveled extensively to study the music and instruments of different cultures, including Africa, Asia, and South America. He also studied with some of the world's leading percussionists, such as Babatunde Olatunji, Glen Velez, and Zakir Hussain. In 1979, Kvistad co-founded the percussion ensemble Nexus, which quickly gained international recognition for its innovative performances and recordings. The group's repertoire included works by contemporary composers such as Steve Reich, Philip Glass, and John Cage, as well as traditional music from around the world. Nexus performed at major concert halls and festivals throughout North America, Europe, and Asia, and collaborated with many leading orchestras and conductors. Kvistad's expertise in instrument making also played a significant role in his career. He founded the company Woodstock Chimes in 1979, which produces high-quality wind chimes and other percussion instruments. The company's products are known for their unique designs and beautiful sound, and have been featured in many films, TV shows, and recordings. Kvistad's compositions for percussion have been performed by many leading ensembles, including Nexus, the New York Philharmonic, and the Boston Pops. His works often incorporate elements of world music and improvisation, and showcase his virtuosic playing and innovative use of instruments. Kvistad has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to music. In 1999, he was awarded a Grammy Award for Best New Age Album for his work on the album "Planet Drum," which featured collaborations with percussionists from around the world. He has also received awards from the National Endowment for the Arts, the American Music Center, and the Percussive Arts Society. In addition to his musical career, Kvistad is also an advocate for environmental sustainability and social justice. He has been involved in many initiatives to promote sustainable living and protect the environment, and has worked with organizations such as Greenpeace and the Rainforest Foundation. Overall, Garry Kvistad's career as a percussionist, composer, and instrument maker has been marked by innovation, creativity, and a deep respect for the diverse musical traditions of the world. His contributions to classical music have been significant, and his work continues to inspire and influence musicians and audiences around the world.

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